Guinea-Bissau Weather in March

Overview of March Weather in Guinea-Bissau

March in Guinea-Bissau marks the beginning of the hot and dry season that stretches into April and May. The West African country experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, and March falls within the dry season. While it is still warm and humid, it is not as intensely hot as the peak months of April and May. Rainfall is typically minimal, but humidity can still make it feel quite warm, especially in coastal areas. The country’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means that temperatures are slightly moderated by sea breezes, but inland areas can get particularly hot during the day.

The weather is generally sunny, with occasional clouds, and the rainfall usually starts to pick up towards the end of the month as the transition to the rainy season begins. The dry winds from the Sahara, known as the Harmattan winds, may also affect the region during March, bringing drier conditions and occasional dust, especially in the northern parts of the country.

Average Temperatures in March

In Guinea-Bissau, the temperature in March is typically warm, with coastal areas being slightly more moderate than inland regions. Here’s a breakdown of average temperatures for key cities and regions during March:

• Bissau (Capital, Coastal): 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
• Cacheu (Northern Coastal): 21°C to 30°C (70°F to 86°F)
• Bafata (Inland): 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F)
• Gabu (Eastern Inland): 23°C to 36°C (73°F to 97°F)
• Mansôa (Coastal, Northern Guinea-Bissau): 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)

In Bissau, the capital city, temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) at night to 31°C (88°F) during the day, which is typical for coastal regions. Inland areas like Bafata and Gabu experience higher temperatures, with highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F) or even 36°C (97°F) in the hottest parts of the day, especially in Gabu. Coastal cities like Cacheu and Mansôa have slightly cooler temperatures due to their proximity to the Atlantic, but they still experience warm conditions, especially during the day.

Precipitation Levels in March

March is part of the dry season in Guinea-Bissau, and as such, precipitation is relatively low. While the month does mark the beginning of the transition towards the rainy season, there is generally little rain until the very end of the month, when the first signs of the wet season begin to appear.

• Rainfall: 0mm to 30mm (0 inches to 1.2 inches)
• Snowfall: Snow is extremely rare in Guinea-Bissau due to its tropical climate.
• Humidity: Humidity levels are relatively high, especially in the coastal regions, with humidity increasing towards the end of the month as the temperature rises.

In Bissau, rainfall in March averages between 10mm and 20mm (0.4 inches to 0.8 inches), while other coastal areas like Cacheu and Mansôa may receive slightly less precipitation. Inland areas, like Bafata and Gabu, may experience even less rainfall during March. March generally marks the end of the dry season, with humidity gradually rising and occasional light rain showers towards the latter part of the month.

Wind Patterns in March

Wind patterns in Guinea-Bissau are typically light to moderate, but the Harmattan winds may make their presence felt during March, especially in the northern and inland regions. These winds originate from the Sahara Desert and bring dry, dusty air to West Africa, including Guinea-Bissau. In the coastal areas, winds are generally milder and come from the ocean, providing some relief from the heat.

• Wind Speeds: 5 to 15 km/h (3 to 9 mph)
• Wind Direction: Winds typically come from the northeast during the Harmattan season and from the southwest along the coast.
• Wind Strength: The winds in coastal regions tend to be light, but the Harmattan winds can be stronger, causing dust and dry conditions, especially in the northern and inland areas.

The Harmattan winds can make the air feel even drier and more uncomfortable in the northern parts of the country, while the coastal areas of Bissau and Mansôa experience milder winds, which help to moderate the temperatures. However, the winds in general provide a relief from the humidity, especially in the afternoons when the temperatures peak.

Atmospheric Pressure in March

March is characterized by relatively stable atmospheric pressure, as it falls during the dry season. However, as the rainy season begins to approach, atmospheric pressure can fluctuate slightly, particularly towards the end of the month when low-pressure systems start to develop.

• Average Pressure: 1010 to 1015 hPa (hectopascals)
• Pressure Fluctuations: Minor fluctuations are typical, with low-pressure systems bringing moisture and potential rainfall in the latter part of March.
• Weather Implications: Low-pressure systems can lead to light showers or cloud cover, signaling the start of the rainy season, but the pressure remains relatively stable throughout the month.

In March, Guinea-Bissau typically experiences stable high-pressure systems during the dry season, with only minor pressure fluctuations that contribute to slight changes in weather. These fluctuations are more noticeable towards the end of the month as the weather transitions to the rainy season.

Historical Weather Data for March

Here is a table summarizing the average temperatures and precipitation levels in major cities and regions of Guinea-Bissau during March over the past 10 years. This data provides an overview of typical weather conditions during this month.

From the data, it is clear that temperatures in Guinea-Bissau during March typically range from 30°C (86°F) to 32°C (90°F) during the day, with nights cooling to between 23°C (73°F) and 25°C (77°F). Precipitation remains low across the country, with coastal areas like Bissau and Cacheu receiving between 15mm and 30mm (0.6 to 1.2 inches) of rainfall. Inland areas like Bafata and Gabu generally see even less rainfall during March, with totals ranging from 10mm to 20mm (0.4 to 0.8 inches).

What to Consider When Traveling to Guinea-Bissau in March

Warm and Humid Conditions

March in Guinea-Bissau is generally warm, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F) in cities like Bissau and Bafata. Humidity levels also increase as the dry season draws to a close, making the weather feel warmer. Travelers should prepare for both hot daytime temperatures and cooler nights, especially in the inland regions, by packing lightweight clothing for the day and warmer clothing for the evenings.

Occasional Rain Showers

Although March is typically dry, there may be occasional rain showers, particularly towards the end of the month. The rainy season is approaching, and travelers should bring an umbrella or rain jacket just in case. Coastal areas, such as Bissau and Cacheu, may experience more rainfall than inland regions, but it is generally light and not expected to disrupt most activities.

Sun Protection and Hydration

Given the high temperatures and strong sun, sun protection is essential. Visitors should wear sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and hats to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. Staying hydrated is also important, especially in the humid climate, and drinking bottled or purified water is advised to avoid waterborne diseases.

Mosquito Protection

Due to the warm and humid environment, mosquitoes are common in Guinea-Bissau, particularly during the rainy season. Malaria is prevalent in the region, so travelers should take precautions, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants in the evening, and sleeping under mosquito nets. It’s also advisable to consult a healthcare professional about malaria prophylaxis before traveling.

Health and Safety

Guinea-Bissau is a developing country, and healthcare infrastructure may be limited in rural areas. Travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and access to necessary medical supplies. It’s also a good idea to carry any necessary medications with you, as availability of certain prescriptions may be limited.

Currency and Communication

The local currency in Guinea-Bissau is the West African CFA franc (XOF), and it’s advisable to carry cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted. The official language is Portuguese, but other languages like Crioulo and indigenous languages are commonly spoken. English is not widely understood, so learning some basic Portuguese or Crioulo phrases can be very helpful for communication.

Things to Do in Guinea-Bissau in March

Visit Bissau’s Historic Sites

Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, is home to a variety of historical and cultural attractions. You can explore the colonial architecture of the city, visit the National Ethnographic Museum, or take a stroll through the historic Bissau-Guinean port. March’s mild weather makes it a perfect time to explore the city’s sights without the intense heat.

Explore the Bijagos Archipelago

The Bijagos Archipelago, a group of islands off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich biodiversity and pristine beaches. March is a great time to visit, as the weather is warm and the seas are generally calm. Travelers can take boat trips to explore the islands, relax on secluded beaches, and observe the diverse wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing in the Parque Nacional de Orango

For nature lovers, the Parque Nacional de Orango, located on the Bijagos Islands, offers an opportunity to view wildlife such as monkeys, turtles, and various bird species. The park is known for its wetlands, mangroves, and forests, which are especially lush during March as the rainy season begins.

Visit the Capital’s Local Markets

Bissau’s bustling markets, including the Mercado de Bissau, are a great place to experience local life and sample traditional foods. You can buy fresh fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods, as well as observe the vibrant street culture. The markets are a lively scene in March, and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in Guinea-Bissau’s culture.

Beach Activities and Relaxation

Guinea-Bissau’s coastline offers beautiful beaches, including those near Bissau and on the Bijagos Islands. March is a fantastic time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beach activities. The weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot, making it a perfect time to enjoy the country’s scenic coastline.

Explore the Local Cuisine

Guinea-Bissau is known for its flavorful cuisine, influenced by African, Portuguese, and Creole traditions. In March, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, rice, and local stews. Don’t miss trying caldo de peixe (fish soup) or jollof rice, which are popular dishes in the country. Visiting local restaurants or street food vendors is an excellent way to experience the culinary culture of Guinea-Bissau.